Wakesurfing is a thrilling water sport that has gained popularity in recent years. Unlike traditional surfing, wakesurfers ride the wake of a boat without being pulled by a rope. The United States is home to some of the best wakesurfing destinations in the world, offering a variety of lakes and waterways for enthusiasts of all levels..
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced wakesurfer, there are plenty of destinations to choose from in the US. From California to Florida, there are countless lakes and waterways that offer ideal conditions for wakesurfing. In this article, we will explore some of the best wakesurfing spots and destinations in the US, providing useful information for anyone looking to hit the water and catch some waves.
The Art of Wakesurfing
Wakesurfing is a water sport that has gained popularity in recent years. It is a combination of surfing and wakeboarding, where the rider surfs the wake of a boat or a jet ski without being towed by a rope. The rider uses the boat’s wake to generate speed and create a wave to surf on.
Wakesurfing requires skill, balance, and technique. The rider needs to maintain balance and control while riding the wake and performing tricks. The rider should also be aware of the boat’s speed and direction to adjust their position accordingly.
Wakesurfing is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Beginners can start with a larger board and slower boat speeds, while more advanced riders can use smaller boards and faster boat speeds to perform more complex tricks.
One of the key aspects of wakesurfing is the type of board used. Wakesurf boards are designed to be shorter and wider than traditional surfboards, with a flat bottom and a sharp edge. They also have fins that can be adjusted to modify the board’s performance.
Wakesurfing also requires the use of a boom or a sail to help the rider maintain balance and control. The boom is a bar that extends from the side of the boat, which the rider can hold onto while riding the wake. The sail is a piece of fabric that is attached to the boom, which the rider can use to catch the wind and maintain balance. With all of this in mind, it’s essential to find a reputable vendor for all your gear in order to explore the top wakesurfing locations across the country with all the equipment and accessories you need.
Top Wakesurf Destinations in the United States
The United States is home to some of the best wakesurf destinations in the world. Here are some top wakesurf destinations in the US:
Lake Austin, Texas
Lake Austin is one of the top wakesurf destinations in the US. It is a popular fishing and boating destination that offers some of the best wakesurfing conditions. The main source of inflow to the lake is from the Colorado River. The lake has a number of wakesurf schools that offer lessons to beginners and advanced surfers alike.
Lake Elsinore, California
Lake Elsinore is a popular wakesurf destination in Southern California. The lake offers ideal conditions for wakesurfing, and it is a great place for beginners to learn the sport. The lake has a number of wakesurf schools and rental shops that offer equipment and lessons.
Lake Shasta, California
Lake Shasta is a popular vacation spot for wakesurfers and other water sports enthusiasts. The lake is located in Northern California and offers ideal conditions for wakesurfing. The lake has a number of rental shops and schools that offer lessons and equipment.
Lake Powell, Arizona
Lake Powell is a popular vacation spot for wakesurfers and other water sports enthusiasts. The lake is located in Arizona and offers ideal conditions for wakesurfing. The lake has a number of rental shops and schools that offer lessons and equipment.
Lake Havasu, Arizona
Lake Havasu is a popular vacation spot for wakesurfers and other water sports enthusiasts. The lake is located in Arizona and offers ideal conditions for wakesurfing. The lake has a number of rental shops and schools that offer lessons and equipment.
These are just a few of the top wakesurf destinations in the United States. There are many other great places to wakesurf in the US, so be sure to do your research and find the right spot for you.
California’s Wakesurf Hotspots
California is one of the most popular states in the US for wakesurfing, with plenty of lakes and waterways to choose from. Here are some of the top wakesurf hotspots in California:
Southern California
Southern California is home to several great wakesurfing spots. One of the most popular is Lake Elsinore, which offers ideal conditions for wakesurfing, with calm waters and plenty of space to ride. Tilly’s Marine in Norco County is a great place to rent boats and equipment for wakesurfing in Lake Elsinore and other nearby lakes.
Another great wakesurfing spot in Southern California is Mission Bay in San Diego. Mission Bay Aquatic Center provides all-inclusive boat rentals and lessons for wakesurfing, as well as other water sports like kayaking and windsurfing.
Lake Shasta
Lake Shasta is another popular wakesurfing destination in California. This large reservoir is located in Northern California and offers plenty of space for wakesurfing, as well as other water sports like fishing and boating. Bridge Bay Resort and Lakehead Marina are two great places to rent boats and equipment for wakesurfing in Lake Shasta.
Other Wakesurfing Spots in California
In addition to Lake Elsinore and Lake Shasta, there are many other great wakesurfing spots in California. Some other popular destinations for wakesurfing in California include:
- The California Delta: Located near San Joaquin and Sacramento, the California Delta is a great place for wakesurfing, as well as other water sports like fishing and boating.
- Lake Winnipesaukee: Located in New Hampshire, Lake Winnipesaukee is a popular destination for wakesurfing and other water sports.
Wakesurfing in Texas
Texas is a popular destination for wakesurfers due to its numerous lakes with clear waters and ideal weather conditions. Some of the best wakesurfing spots in Texas include Lake Austin, Lake Travis, and Canyon Lake.
Lake Austin, located in the heart of Austin, is a popular spot for wakesurfing. It offers calm, clear waters that are perfect for beginners and advanced wakesurfers alike. Wade’s Waves is a locally owned and operated wakesurf and ski school that offers private and group lessons for all ages. They also provide sunset cruises and tubing trips for families.
Lake Travis is another popular destination for wakesurfing in Texas. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Wake Surf Texas provides wakesurfing lessons and boat charters on Lake Travis. They offer lessons for all skill levels and have a variety of boats to choose from.
Canyon Lake is located in the Texas Hill Country and is a great spot for wakesurfing. It has over 80 miles of shoreline and offers plenty of space for wakesurfers to enjoy the water. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery and is a great place to relax and unwind. Wake Riderz is a wakesurfing school that offers lessons and charters on Canyon Lake. They have experienced instructors who can teach beginners and advanced wakesurfers alike.
In addition to these popular spots, there are many other lakes in Texas that offer great wakesurfing opportunities. Lake Amistad, for example, is located near Del Rio on the border and is known for its sprawling clear waters. ATX Wake Adventures is another popular spot for wakesurfing rentals in Austin. They offer surf boat rentals that hold up to 10 adults and include a world-class captain/instructor, surfboards, and a full tank of gas.
Arizona’s Wakesurf Spots
Arizona is home to some of the best wakesurf spots in the US. The state is blessed with numerous lakes and reservoirs that offer ideal conditions for wakesurfing. Here are some of the top wakesurf spots in Arizona:
Lake Powell
Lake Powell, located on the border of Utah and Arizona, is a popular destination for wakesurfing. The man-made lake is surrounded by stunning red rock canyons, making it a picturesque location for wakesurfing. The lake is also the second-largest reservoir in the US, providing ample space for wakesurfers to ride the waves.
Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu, a tributary of the Colorado River, is another popular destination for wakesurfing in Arizona. The lake is deep and wide, providing plenty of space for boats to hit the water. The lake is also surrounded by scenic desert mountains and skyscrapers, making it a beautiful location for wakesurfing.
Bartlett Lake
Bartlett Lake, located in the Tonto National Forest, is a popular spot for wakesurfing in Arizona. The lake is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, making it a beautiful location for wakesurfing. The lake is also known for its clear waters, which provide excellent visibility for wakesurfers.
Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant, located in the Phoenix metropolitan area, is a popular destination for wakesurfing. The lake is surrounded by beautiful desert landscapes, making it a picturesque location for wakesurfing. The lake is also known for its calm waters, which provide ideal conditions for wakesurfing.
Saguaro Lake
Saguaro Lake, located in the Tonto National Forest, is another popular spot for wakesurfing in Arizona. The lake is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, making it a beautiful location for wakesurfing. The lake is also known for its clear waters, which provide excellent visibility for wakesurfers.
Arizona is a great destination for wakesurfing, with numerous lakes and reservoirs offering ideal conditions for the sport. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, Arizona has something to offer for everyone.
Wakesurfing in Florida
Florida is a well-known destination for wakesurfing enthusiasts. With its warm climate, crystal clear waters, and endless coastline, Florida offers some of the best wakesurf spots in the US. From Miami to Destin, there are plenty of options for beginners and experienced riders alike.
One of the most popular wakesurf spots in Florida is Miami Beach. With over a dozen beaches offering wakesurfing opportunities, Miami Beach is a great place to learn and practice this thrilling water sport. There are many places that provide wakesurfing lessons and rentals in Miami, such as Miami Wakesurfing Academy, Wake Life Miami, and Wake Zone Miami.
Another great wakesurf spot in Florida is Lake Allatoona. Located in the northern part of the state, Lake Allatoona offers calm waters and stunning scenery, making it a popular destination for wakesurfers. There are also several wakesurf schools and rental shops in the area, such as Allatoona Adventures and Lake Allatoona Watersports.
In addition to Miami Beach and Lake Allatoona, there are many other wakesurf spots in Florida that are worth checking out. Some of these include:
- Destin: Located in the Florida Panhandle, Destin is a popular vacation spot that offers some of the best wakesurfing conditions in the state. Destin Wakesurf provides packages for locals and visitors to experience Destin’s most unique watersport. These include the Wakesurf Experience and Wakesurfing & Crab Island Experience.
- Orlando: Orlando has been a professional wakeboarding hub for decades and is now home to just as many wakesurfers. Central Florida has an unbelievable amount of lakes, and there are plenty of options for wakesurf schools and recreational riding spots alike.
- Tampa Bay: Tampa Bay is another great wakesurf spot in Florida, offering a mix of calm and choppy waters that are perfect for riders of all levels. There are several wakesurf schools and rental shops in the area, such as Tampa Bay Wakesurfing and SunWest Park.
North Carolina’s Wakesurfing Locations
North Carolina is a great destination for wakesurfers, with several lakes and rivers offering ideal conditions for the sport. Here are some of the best wakesurfing locations in North Carolina:
Hyco Lake
Hyco Lake is a popular spot for wakesurfing in North Carolina due to the fact that the water is heated, making the conditions for riding ideal no matter the season. The surrounding trees keep the water glassy for a smooth ride. Hyco Lake also offers campsites and picnic grounds, making it a great place to spend the day or even a weekend.
Lake Norman
Lake Norman is another great spot for wakesurfing in North Carolina. It is the largest man-made lake in the state and offers plenty of space for wakesurfers to ride. The lake is also home to several marinas and restaurants, making it a popular destination for boaters and wakesurfers alike.
Jordan Lake
Jordan Lake is a beautiful lake located in central North Carolina. It is a popular spot for wakesurfing due to its calm waters and scenic surroundings. The lake is also home to several campgrounds and hiking trails, making it a great place to spend the day or even a weekend.
Lake Gaston
Lake Gaston is a large lake located on the border of North Carolina and Virginia. It offers over 20,000 acres of water and 350 miles of shoreline, making it a great spot for wakesurfing. The lake is also home to several marinas and restaurants, making it a popular destination for boaters and wakesurfers alike.
Kerr Lake
Kerr Lake, also known as Buggs Island Lake, is a large lake located on the border of North Carolina and Virginia. It offers over 50,000 acres of water and 800 miles of shoreline, making it one of the largest lakes in the region. The lake is a popular spot for wakesurfing, with several coves and inlets offering ideal conditions for the sport.
Exploring Wakesurfing in Utah
Utah is a landlocked state in the western United States, known for its rugged landscapes, national parks, and world-class skiing. But Utah is also home to some of the best wakesurfing spots in the country. With its clear, calm waters, and stunning mountain scenery, Utah is a great place to learn how to wakesurf or to take your skills to the next level.
One of the best wakesurfing destinations in Utah is Blue Lake. Located in the Uinta Mountains, Blue Lake is a pristine alpine lake that offers some of the best wakesurfing conditions in the state. The lake is surrounded by towering pine trees and rocky cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop for your wakesurfing adventure.
Blue Lake is a popular destination for wakesurfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. The lake’s calm waters make it easy to learn how to wakesurf, while its size and depth provide plenty of room for experienced wakesurfers to practice their tricks.
If you’re new to wakesurfing, there are plenty of wakesurfing schools and rental shops in the area that can help you get started. These schools offer lessons and equipment rentals, so you can learn how to wakesurf in a safe and controlled environment.
For more experienced wakesurfers, Blue Lake offers plenty of opportunities to push your skills to the limit. The lake’s clear waters and smooth surface make it easy to catch air and perform tricks, while its size and depth provide plenty of room to ride and explore.
In addition to Blue Lake, there are plenty of other great wakesurfing spots in Utah. Some of the other popular destinations include Lake Powell, Jordanelle Reservoir, and Deer Creek Reservoir. Each of these spots offers its own unique wakesurfing experience, from calm and peaceful waters to fast and challenging waves.
Wakesurfing in Missouri
Missouri is home to several lakes that are perfect for wakesurfing, but one of the most popular is Table Rock Lake. Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Table Rock Lake is a well-known water sports destination in Missouri and Arkansas.
Table Rock Lake is steadily gaining popularity as one of the top lakes for wakesurfing in the US thanks to the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboarding Competition. The lake temperature varies according to season, but it is generally warm enough for wakesurfing from May to September.
Wakesurfers will find plenty of coves and calm waters to explore on Table Rock Lake. The lake’s clear water and scenic surroundings make it a great place to spend a day on the water.
It’s important to note that wakesurfers should always practice courteous boating when on Table Rock Lake. This means not wakesurfing past a chain of anchored boats, keeping music levels and content respectful, and using best practice driving techniques. For more wakesurf etiquette tips, visit the Kirby’s School of Wake YouTube channel.
Nevada’s Wakesurf Spots
Nevada may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wakesurfing, but there are still some great spots to catch some waves. Here are some of the top wakesurf spots in Nevada:
Lake Mead
Lake Mead is a popular spot for wakesurfing in Nevada. Located just outside of Las Vegas, this lake offers plenty of space to ride and explore. There are also plenty of boat rental options available for those who don’t have their own boat.
One thing to keep in mind when wakesurfing at Lake Mead is the wind. The lake can get choppy and windy at times, so it’s important to check the weather conditions before heading out.
Lake Tahoe
While Lake Tahoe is primarily known for its skiing and snowboarding, it’s also a great spot for wakesurfing. The lake is crystal clear and surrounded by beautiful mountains, making for a picturesque setting to catch some waves.
However, wakesurfing on Lake Tahoe is not always possible. The lake is often calm and doesn’t have the consistent wind needed to create waves. It’s best to check the weather conditions and forecast before planning a wakesurfing trip to Lake Tahoe.
Other Wakesurf Spots
While Lake Mead and Lake Tahoe are the most popular wakesurf spots in Nevada, there are other options available. Some other lakes to consider include Lake Mohave, Lake Havasu, and Lake Topaz.
It’s important to note that wakesurfing is not allowed on all lakes in Nevada, so be sure to check the regulations before heading out. Additionally, always make sure to follow proper safety precautions and wear a life jacket while wakesurfing.
Wakesurfing in Oregon
Oregon is a great destination for wakesurfing enthusiasts. The state is home to several lakes and waterways that provide excellent conditions for wakesurfing. Here are some of the best wakesurf spots in Oregon:
Willamette Park
Willamette Park, located in West Linn, is a popular spot for wakesurfing. The park features a ski course and an 18-foot incline rail for wakeboarding and wakeskating. The tree line along the park blocks much of the day’s wind, making it an ideal location for slalom skiing.
Lake Billy Chinook
Lake Billy Chinook is a beautiful and large waterway located in Central Oregon. Three rivers come together and are dammed to create a fantastic waterway for boating. It is one of the most popular spots for wakeboarding in the region.
Cultus Lake
Cultus Lake is another popular spot for wakesurfing in Oregon. It is located about the same distance from Bend as Lake Billy Chinook and offers similar accessibility. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery and provides excellent conditions for wakesurfing.
Radar Lake
While not located in Oregon, Radar Lake is a popular destination for wakesurfing enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest. It is located in Woodinville, Washington, and offers some of the best conditions for wakesurfing in the region. The lake is owned by Radar Skis and is used for testing their products.
Wakesurfing in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is home to some of the best wakesurfing spots in the United States. Lake Winnipesaukee, in particular, is a popular destination for wakesurfers. The lake is known for its size and variety of protected coves and secluded areas, making it an ideal location for wakesurfing.
Elevated Wake Co. is one of the companies that offer wakesurfing services in Lake Winnipesaukee. They provide an 8-foot longboard for those seeking a laid-back ride behind the boat. Their knowledgeable captains will guide you to the most serene waters possible, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Another wakesurfing service provider in Lake Winnipesaukee is Wake Winni. They offer everything you need for wake surfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, their experienced captains will help take your skills to the next level. They use top-of-the-line equipment and provide knowledgeable instruction, ensuring that you’ll have an unforgettable time on the lake.
Aside from Lake Winnipesaukee, there are other spots in New Hampshire that are ideal for wakesurfing. The Merrimack River, which is 117 miles long and flows from Franklin, NH to Newburyport, MA, has multiple sections that are optimal for wakeboarding. The river has multiple dams, which make the boating sections extremely quiet and super glassy. The coolest thing about wakeboarding on a river is that there is no need to turn.
Tennessee’s Wakesurf Destinations
Tennessee is home to several beautiful lakes that offer excellent opportunities for wakesurfing. Some of the most popular destinations for wakesurfing in Tennessee include Dale Hollow Lake, Center Hill Lake, and Beech Lake.
Dale Hollow Lake is a reservoir located on the Kentucky-Tennessee border. It is known for its crystal-clear water, which makes it an ideal destination for wakesurfing. The lake has several marinas and boat ramps, making it easy for visitors to access the water. In addition to wakesurfing, visitors can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating.
Center Hill Lake is another popular destination for wakesurfing in Tennessee. It is located about an hour east of Nashville and is known for its deep, wide, and uncrowded waters. The lake has several boat ramps and marinas, making it easy for visitors to access the water. In addition to wakesurfing, visitors can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating.
Beech Lake is a smaller lake located in Lexington, Tennessee. It is known for its quiet and uncrowded waters, making it an ideal destination for wakesurfing. The lake has several boat ramps and marinas, making it easy for visitors to access the water. In addition to wakesurfing, visitors can also enjoy fishing and boating.
Wakesurfing in Washington
Washington state is not typically known as a top destination for wakesurfing, but there are still some great spots to check out for those in the area. One of the most popular spots is Lake Washington, which is conveniently located near Seattle. This lake is large enough to provide plenty of space for wakesurfing, and there are several launch points available around the lake.
Another great option in Washington is Lake Sammamish, which is located just east of Seattle. This lake is a bit smaller than Lake Washington, but it still offers plenty of space for wakesurfing. There are several parks and launch points around the lake, making it easy to access.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, Lake Wenatchee is a great option. This lake is located in the Cascade Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The lake is relatively small, but it is perfect for wakesurfing and other water activities.
In addition to these lakes, there are several other spots throughout Washington that are worth checking out. Some other popular options include Lake Chelan, Lake Tapps, and Lake Roosevelt. Each of these lakes offers something unique, so it is worth exploring them all to find the perfect spot for your next wakesurfing adventure.
Hawaii’s Wakesurfing Locations
Hawaii is a popular destination for surfers, and it’s no surprise that it’s also a great place for wakesurfing. The warm waters, sunny weather, and beautiful scenery make it an ideal location for this exciting water sport.
Maui is one of the best places to wakesurf in Hawaii, with several spots that offer great conditions for beginners and experienced riders alike. One of the most popular spots is Lahaina Harbor, which offers calm waters and a protected area for wakesurfing. Another great spot is Kihei, which has a long coastline with plenty of space for wakesurfing.
On the island of Oahu, Hawaii Hot Spots Surf School in Honolulu offers lessons and equipment for wakesurfing. They have experienced instructors who can teach beginners the basics and help more advanced riders improve their skills.
For those looking for a more challenging experience, the North Shore of Oahu is known for its big waves and is a popular destination for experienced surfers and wakesurfers. However, it’s important to note that the North Shore can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced riders.
Understanding the Impact of Wind and Weather
Wakesurfing is a sport that is heavily influenced by wind and weather conditions. Understanding how different weather conditions impact the water can help you find the best wakesurfing spots and get the most out of your sessions. Here are some key factors to consider:
Wind Direction
Wind direction is one of the most important factors to consider when looking for a good wakesurfing spot. Offshore winds, which blow from the land towards the water, are ideal for wakesurfing because they create clean, smooth waves. Onshore winds, which blow from the water towards the land, can cause the waves to break up and become choppy, making it more difficult to surf.
Wind Speed
The wind speed can also have a significant impact on the quality of the waves. In general, lighter winds are better for wakesurfing because they create smoother waves with longer faces. Stronger winds can cause the waves to become choppy and difficult to ride.
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season can also impact wakesurfing conditions in certain areas. The Atlantic Ocean is particularly prone to hurricanes, which can create large swells that are perfect for experienced wakesurfers. However, it is important to exercise caution during hurricane season and avoid surfing in dangerous conditions.
